Category: News & Information
Volunteer Shout-Outs - November 2024
The Office of Development and Alumni Relations relies on a team of dedicated Blue Hen volunteers to strengthen the connections between alumni, students and the University through a variety of programs and events. Volunteers' many contributions include planning and helping to lead regional, affinity and reunion events, offering mentorship and professional development opportunities to students and serving as proud ambassadors of UD.
Here, we regularly spotlight volunteers who enhance the UD experience for students and alumni.
November 2024 Spotlights: Fil Sherry, BE84, and Michael James Rulon, AS01
Fil Sherry, BE84
"I want to make sure that current and future UD players know that they are part of something special; something that truly will give them a lifetime of memories and friendships."
In 2017, Fil Sherry, BE84, joined the UD Hockey Alumni Association Board and has since become an essential part of its success. As an active volunteer, Sherry has taken a leading role in organizing the annual UD Hockey Alumni Association event at the Philadelphia Flyers game, a highlight for many alumni. His dedication ensures this event is memorable and fosters a strong connection among UD hockey alumni.
Beyond his volunteer efforts, Sherry is a loyal supporter of UD’s mission through his financial contributions as a Delaware Diamond Society and True Blue Hen donor. His generosity and enthusiasm help strengthen the Blue Hen community, making a lasting impact on future generations.
Why he gives back to UD:
“UD Hockey has meant as much to me as the education I received in my years here. I still play regularly with eight guys I played UD Hockey with 40 years ago! And even more of us keep in touch regularly. I want to make sure that current and future UD players know that they are part of something special; something that truly will give them a lifetime of memories and friendships. And at the same time, I want to try to reduce the financial burden on these kids so that hockey at UD remains accessible.”
Photo: Fil Sherry (center) with former UD Hockey teammates Jim Dewson, BE81 (left) and Tom Wick, BE84 (right) at UD Hockey Alumni Night at the Flyers
Michael James Rulon, AS01
"I want to do whatever I can to make sure that students at UD have the support they need to not only complete their degree, but truly benefit from everything UD has to offer."
Earlier this year, Michael Rulon, AS01, joined the UDPride Alumni Network after discovering its promotion on Facebook during Pride Month in June. Since joining, Rulon has been a valuable addition to the UDPride Alumni Network as a Board Member. Notably, he partially funded the National Coming Out Day event on October 11, 2024, hosted by the UD Registered Student Organization (RSO) Lavender Programming Board.
In addition to his volunteer involvement, Rulon is a dedicated supporter of UD’s mission. His financial contributions as both a Delaware Diamond Society member and a True Blue Hen donor show his commitment to advancing the university's initiatives and fostering an inclusive campus community.
Fun Fact:
“I'm from a family of Blue Hens. My mother graduated in 1992, my older brother and his wife in 2000, me in 2001, my sister in 2003, my little brother in 2009 (I think), his wife also graduated in 2009.”
Why he gives back to UD:
“I give back to UD because I was able to attend only because I received generous support from others. I see so many of my current students here at Northern Arizona University struggling to balance their classes, their work, and their family obligations, and I want to do whatever I can to make sure that students at UD have the support they need to not only complete their degree, but truly benefit from everything UD has to offer.”